August in the Garden

The garden is full and a little wild now, brimming with life, colour, and the gentle signs of summer beginning to tip toward autumn (my favourite season).

But there’s still plenty to do, to guide, to gather, and to gently prepare for the turning season ahead.

What to Do in the Garden in August

• Deadhead often – Dahlias, cosmos, sweet peas and calendula will keep blooming with a little encouragement.

• Prune lavender – Trim back flowered stems down to new growth to keep plants tidy and bushy for next year.

• Sow now for autumn – Think salads, radish and nasturtium. Quick crops to carry you into the cooler months.

• Water deeply, not daily – Prioritise containers, greenhouses, and anything recently planted. Early morning or evening is still best.

• Plan your bulb orders – Autumn bulbs will be landing soon. Now’s the moment to dream of spring tulips, daffodils, and muscari, I'll be ordering mine from Farmer Gracy, for 10% off your order use code THEGRANARYGARDEN

• Reflect – What thrived? What struggled? Which plants made you happiest this summer? A little reflection now makes all the difference when planning for next year.

What Can Be Harvested

• Vegetables:

  • Courgettes

  • Runner and French beans

  • Carrots, beetroot, spring onions

  • Tomatoes, cucumbers, and chillies from the greenhouse

  • Salad leaves, chard, kale

• Fruits:

  • Raspberries, blackberries, blueberries

  • Plums, early apples, pears

• Herbs:

  • Rosemary, thyme, mint, and oregano

  • Basil

  • Lavender for drying (I'll be saving all mine after pruning)

Final Thoughts

August reminds us that growth is not always about striving. Sometimes it’s about ripening, softening, and letting go. This is the month to sit among your plants, barefoot and content.

All my love, love from Donna 🌷